The Mind-Body Connection

O n the surface, eating disorders and addictive behaviors seem completely different. Yet these two types of mental illness have a crucial thing in common: they impact the physical body as well as the mind.

Though no mental health experiences are universal, eating disorders and addictive behaviors are often also illnesses about control. Those who struggle with addiction and/or eating disorders seek a sense of control over uncontrollable situations through various unhealthy means. They may binge and purge. They may choose not to eat at all. Others may turn to alcohol and use it as a crutch through extended periods of their lives. But once the cycle is recognized, there is immense opportunity to heal both mentally and physically.

You can’t talk about the physical body without also considering the mind. And when the mind is hurting, chances are, the body is, too.